The Xero Beautiful Business Fund is providing vital financial help to small businesses aiming to turn their innovative ideas into reality and further their long-term goals. Since its launch in 2023, the fund has already supported various startups, nonprofits, and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in reaching their growth ambitions.
This year, winners in the Australian category received $20,000, while global winners were awarded an extra $50,000. Notably, Other Matter and Prosthetic Art Technology shone bright by winning both local and global prizes in the ‘Innovating for environmental sustainability’ and ‘Trailblazing with technology’ categories, respectively. We spoke with leaders from these companies about how this funding serves as a crucial boost for their entrepreneurial dreams.
Other Matter: Leading the Way in Sustainable Decals
Other Matter envisions a world beyond petrochemicals. Founded by Jessie French, the company has created a groundbreaking algae-based polymer to replace conventional vinyl decals used in advertising and décor. These new decals are not only fully recyclable but also aim to establish a more sustainable lifecycle, which is a major advancement for an industry that heavily relies on petrochemicals.
“Other Matter began as an artistic project, imagining what a world without petroleum would look like,” French explains. “When preparing exhibits, you often need vinyl lettering, but since my work focuses on material impacts, I couldn’t use vinyl. That’s how Other Matter was born.”
French aimed to apply for the Xero Beautiful Business Fund to secure resources necessary for scaling their operations. Winning the top prizes in their category enables them to shift towards a more automated production process.
“This funding is a game-changer for us,” she says. “Our goal is to scale up and transition from a manual to a machine-based production method. We want to provide a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional vinyl signage.”
However, French acknowledges that scaling isn’t without challenges. “Creating a new material also means establishing a new system for its use, all while ensuring it remains recyclable. Although it may take time, we’re committed to doing it right.”
Merging Art and Science at Prosthetic Art Technology
Sophie Fleming, the director of Prosthetic Art Technology, reflects a deeply personal mission. “Our company was founded out of necessity and passion nearly 20 years ago,” she shares. “Unfortunately, there are limited funding options for facial prosthetics in Australia, leading to accessibility challenges for those in need.”
Based in regional New South Wales, Prosthetic Art Technology specializes in creating custom silicone prosthetics that help restore normalcy and confidence for individuals who have lost facial features or limbs. By combining art with advanced technology, they are pioneers in their field.
“Our prosthetics require artistic talent to function properly, and the craftsmanship must be virtually invisible,” Fleming notes, adding that they almost missed their chance to apply for this year’s Xero Beautiful Business Fund.
The team applied primarily due to dwindling funds. To keep pace with the rapidly evolving industry, they need new technologies to enhance their digital capabilities. The funding they’ll receive allows them to upgrade essential modeling software, invest in a new 3D printer, and explore cutting-edge 3D scanning technologies.
“For a true digital workflow, we rely on sculpting, printing, and scanning. New scanning technologies enable us to make digital copies instead of requiring physical impressions. This means clients no longer have to sit for long periods during scans,” Fleming explains.
This major upgrade will significantly enhance the quality of their work. “These new tools will elevate our artistic workflow, allowing us to focus on the creative and quality aspects of our production,” she adds. “It’s a wonderful blend of old and new techniques.”
Encouraging Small Business Innovation
Both companies agree that the positive impact of the Xero Beautiful Business Fund will accelerate their growth and energize their future plans. For Other Matter, it represents a step forward in their eco-friendly mission, while for Prosthetic Art Technology, it’s an opportunity to improve the artistry and accessibility of life-changing prosthetics.
For other business owners considering applying for similar funding, French encourages them to take the leap: “With many governments cutting back on business funding, opportunities like this have become more crucial than ever for small businesses.”
